I Can’t Help Myself

My father was born in Lithuania. As immigrants from certain Europeans countries began to migrate to the United States, stereotypes began to develop. Whether it was the era, how my dad was raised or specific mannerisms, my father tended to be stoic unless he was angry. Meanwhile, my mom who grew up in Hershey, Pennsylvania wasn’t afraid to wear her emotions on her sleeve. Like any child, I exhibit a combination of qualities from each of my parents. Nonetheless, whenever my heart is moved or touched by something special, I can’t help myself, easily brought to tears.

As He entered a village, He was met by ten lepers who stood at a distance; 13 and they raised their voices and called out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were [miraculously] healed and made clean, Luke 17:12-14.

During the first century, Jews and Samaritans were enemies as hatred and resentment spilled over from the past. This tension began when Israel was divided into two kingdoms, Israel in the north and Judea in the south. The north whose second capital was relocated upon a hillside in Samaria often did what was right in their own eyes. The southern kingdom remained more true to God as some kings reminded citizens of their spiritual heritage. The main issues between Jews and Samaritans began during 722 B.C. when Assyria conquered Israel and took most of its people into captivity. The byproduct of this siege led to intermarriages between Gentiles and Israelites. Thus, Samaritans earned the reputation of being only half Jewish, labeled and ridiculed for centuries.

One of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, glorifying and praising and honoring God with a loud voice; 16 and he lay face downward at Jesus’ feet, thanking Him [over and over]. He was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten [of you] cleansed? Where are the [other] nine?18 Was there no one found to return and to give thanks and praise to God, except this foreigner?” – Luke 17:15-18

Recognizing this portion in history, Jesus is shocked by how little appreciation is shown to God by 9 Jewish lepers. On the other hand, the Samaritan leper is overwhelmed after being healed. According to a first century doctor, this man couldn’t help himself, praising God over and over again. Sometimes in life, stereotypes influence how people act, behave and interact with others. Yet, when you slow down and look around to see the numerous minor miracles in your life, you too can model the thanksgiving demonstrated by this Samaritan leper. May the example of this first century man inspire you to develop a new outlook on life in 2019.